Structurally Twisted Supramolecular Organogel Material with Prominent Aggregation-Induced Emission Enhancement

Area of Science:

• Organic Chemistry
• Materials Science
• Supramolecular Chemistry

Background:

• Pyridyl dicarboxamide (PDA) moieties are known to influence supramolecular self-assembly.
• Twisted chromophoric cores are crucial for modulating photophysical properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and synthesize novel organic molecules (KB-2 and KB-1) for investigating self-assembly and gelation.
• To explore the structure-property relationships influencing emission behavior and aggregation.
• To evaluate the gelation capabilities of KB-2 in various organic solvents.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of KB-2 incorporating PDA and dodecoxyl side chains into a twisted core.
• Preparation of a model compound KB-1 lacking PDA moieties.
• Comprehensive investigation of self-assembly and gelation behavior in solution and aggregated states.
• Analysis of optical properties, including aggregation-induced emission enhancement (AIEE).

Main Results:

• KB-2 exhibited excellent gelation ability, forming stable organogels.
• Both KB-1 and KB-2 displayed pronounced aggregation-induced emission enhancement (AIEE).
• The twisted core was confirmed to be critical for modulating photophysical properties.

Conclusions:

• The PDA groups significantly contribute to the supramolecular self-assembly and gelation capability of KB-2.
• Molecular design, particularly the twisted core and PDA moieties, dictates emission behavior, aggregation modes, and gelation.
• The study elucidates structure-property relationships in novel organic gelators.